(Pictured: A survey of older adults finds the ones in best health have close friends).

For adults over 50, maintaining close friendships isn’t just about having someone to chat with over coffee – it could be integral to their health and well-being.

A new study reveals a stark reality: While 75 percent of older adults say they have enough close friends, those saying they’re in poor mental or physical health are significantly less likely to maintain these vital social connections. The study paints a concerning picture of how health challenges can create a cycle of social isolation, potentially making health problems worse.

The University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging, conducted last August, surveyed 3,486 adults between 50 and 94, offering an in-depth look at how friendships evolve in later life and their crucial role in supporting well-being. The results highlight a complex relationship between health status and social connections that many may not realize.

“With growing understanding of the importance of social connection for older adults, it’s important to explore the relationship between friendship and health and identify those who might benefit most from more interaction,” said Sarah Patterson, a University of Michigan demographer.

Patterson, a research assistant professor at the university’s Institute for Social Research, emphasized the critical nature of understanding social connections. She noted 90 percent of adults over 50 said they have at least one close friend, with 48 percent maintaining one to three close friendships and 42 percent enjoying the company of four or more. However, these numbers drop dramatically for those facing health challenges. Among individuals in fair or poor mental health, 20 percent have no close friends at all – double the overall rate.

The gender divide in friendship is notable, researchers said. Men are more likely than women to report having no close friends. Age also plays a role, with those 50 to 64 more likely to report no close friendships compared to their older counterparts – a somewhat counterintuitive finding that challenges assumptions about social isolation  increasing with age.

When it comes to staying in touch, modern technology has helped keep connections alive. In the month before the survey, 78 percent of older adults had in-person contact with close friends, while 73 percent connected over the phone and 71 percent used text messages. It suggests that older adults are adapting to new ways of being connected.

The study’s findings resonate with AARP, one of the study’s supporters.

“Strong social connections can encourage healthier choices, provide emotional support, and help older adults navigate health challenges, particularly for those at greater risk of isolation,” said Indira Venkat, senior vice president of research at AARP

Perhaps most striking is the role that close friends play in supporting health and well-being. Among those with at least one close friend, 79 percent say they can definitely count on friends for emotional support in good times or bad, and 70 percent feel confident discussing health concerns with their friends. These aren’t just casual relationships – they’re vital support systems that can influence health behaviors and outcomes, researchers said.

Consider this: 50 percent of older adults say their close friends encouraged them to make healthy choices, such as exercising more or eating a healthier diet. Another 35 percent say friends motivated them to get health issues checked out by a healthcare provider, and 29 percent received encouragement to stop unhealthy behaviors like poor eating habits or excessive drinking.

What’s more, 32 percent had friends who helped them when sick or injured, 17 percent had friends pick up medications for them, and 15 percent had friends attend medical appointments with them, underscoring how friendship can function as informal healthcare support systems.

But researchers said the study reveals a challenging paradox: Making and maintaining friendships becomes more difficult precisely when people might need them most.

Among those reporting fair or poor mental health, 65 percent and 61 percent, respectively, of older adults say making new friends and maintaining existing friendships is harder now than when they were younger. Seventy-five percent still want to develop new friendships, particularly those who live alone and report feeling lonely.

The study also reveals a trend toward friendships between people of different age groups. Among those with at least one close friend, 46 percent have one from a different generation (at least 15 years older or younger). This suggests that meaningful connections transcend age gaps, researchers said.

The study’s participants were multi-ethnic, including Caucasians, Blacks, Hispanics, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. They were surveyed online or by phone.

Source: StudyFinds, an online (studyfinds.org) hub for reports on scientific research. Its founder is Steve Fink, a former television editor for CBS.